How to Make Resin Art at Home: Ultimate Epoxy Art Guide

Last Updated on November 17, 2025 by teamobn

Creating resin art at home has never been more accessible. This guide will walk you through every step. You will learn how to make resin art that shines. Get ready to master epoxy resin art with ease.

Quick Answer: How to Make Resin Art at Home

To create DIY resin art, follow these core steps:

1. Prepare a Safe Workspace – Cover your table, wear nitrile gloves and a respirator, and ensure the room is well-ventilated.
2. Measure and Mix Epoxy Resin – Combine equal parts resin and hardener by weight, then stir slowly for 3–4 minutes, scraping the sides and bottom.
3. Add Pigments and Additives – Mix in resin-safe pigments, mica powder, or glitter in small amounts until you reach your desired color.
4. Pour on a Level Surface – Pour in thin layers (about ⅛ inch), use a spatula to spread, and a heat gun or torch to pop bubbles.
5. Let the Resin Cure – Cover with a dust shield and allow 24–72 hours for full hardening before handling.

What Is Resin Art and How Does Epoxy Resin Work?

Resin art is a fascinating form of creating glossy, dimensional artwork using epoxy resin — a two-part liquid plastic that, when mixed, undergoes a chemical reaction to harden into a solid, glass-like finish. This DIY resin art medium lets you embed colours, objects, and textures, making it perfect for everything from abstract paintings and coasters to jewellery and 3D decorations.

Is It Safe to Make Resin Art at Home?

Yes, making epoxy resin art at home is safe if you follow critical safety protocols. Uncured resin can emit fumes and cause skin irritation.

Safety First: Resin Art at Home

• Dispose of waste properly
  • Never pour leftover resin down the drain. Let it cure completely in the mixing cup before throwing it away.
• Always wear protective gear
  • Nitrile gloves, a NIOSH-approved respirator for organic vapors, and eye protection.
• Work in a well-ventilated area
  • Open windows, use fans, or work outdoors. Avoid rooms where you eat or sleep.
• Keep away from children and pets
  • Ensure your workspace is off-limits during the process and curing time.

Mastering Resin Art at Home: A Comprehensive Epoxy Tutorial

What Do You Need to Start Resin Art at Home?

Gathering the right resin art supplies is the first step. Here’s what you’ll need to begin your epoxy resin art project.

• Two-part epoxy resin and matching hardener
• Plastic or silicone mixing cups
• Resin pigments (mica powders, liquid dyes)
• Glitter or metal flakes (optional)
• Isopropyl alcohol for cleanup and sanding residue
• Dust cover or plastic dome

Tools

• Digital scale for accurate resin-to-hardener measurement
• Wooden or silicone stir sticks
• Toothpicks for positioning embeds and popping tiny bubbles
• Level tool to ensure flat pours
• Silicone spatula for spreading resin
• Heat gun or small torch (or lighter) for bubble removal
• Nitrile gloves and a respirator mask for safety
• Wet-dry sandpaper (400–1200 grit) for edging
• Soft cloth or polishing compound for final buffing

How to Make Resin Art at Home: Step-by-Step for Beginners

Skill Level: Beginner
Estimated Time: 2–3 hours of active work (plus 24–72 hours for curing)

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace and Safety Gear

This is the most critical step. A proper setup prevents messes and ensures your safety.

• Cover Your Surface
  • Use a plastic tablecloth, silicone mat, or wax paper to protect your table. Epoxy resin will not come off if it drips on unprotected surfaces.
• Ensure Ventilation
  • Open windows and use a fan to create a cross-breeze if you’re indoors. A well-ventilated space is non-negotiable for dispersing fumes.
• Wear Your Safety Gear:
  • Nitrile Gloves: Protect your hands from sticky resin and potential skin reactions.
  • Respirator: Wear a NIOSH-approved respirator with organic vapor cartridges to avoid inhaling harmful fumes.
  • Safety Glasses: Prevent accidental splashes from reaching your eyes.
• Get Organized
  • Have all your supplies — resin, hardener, mixing cups, stir sticks, pigments, and your art surface — within easy reach. This is often called having a “mise en place.”

Step 2: Precisely Measure the Resin and Hardener

Incorrect ratios are the number one reason for resin that never fully cures.

• Check Instructions
  • Always refer to your specific resin’s instructions for the correct mix ratio (usually 1:1 by volume or weight).
• Weight vs. Volume
  • Measuring by weight with a digital scale is the most accurate method. If using volume, use clear graduated mixing cups and read the measurements at eye level.

Pro Tip: Pour the resin (Part A) into your mixing cup first, then add the hardener (Part B). This makes it easier to see if you’ve achieved the correct total amount.

Step 3: Mix the Epoxy Resin Thoroughly

A proper mix is crucial for a complete chemical reaction.

• Stir Slowly
  • Use a sturdy stir stick or a silicone spatula. Stir slowly and deliberately for a full 3–4 minutes to minimize air bubble creation.
• Scrape Sides and Bottom
  • Frequently scrape the sides and bottom of the cup to incorporate all material. An unmixed ring at the bottom will leave you with sticky, uncured spots in your final art.
• Check for Consistency
  • The mixture should look completely uniform and slightly cloudy or bubbly. You should see no streaking from either part. A good test is to lift your stir stick and see if the resin drips off in a consistent, clear stream.

Step 4: Add Color and Create Your Design

This is where your creativity comes to life.

• Create Your Design
  • Pour your colors onto your art surface. You can pour them in puddles, swipe them with a palette knife, or use a toothpick to create “dirty pour” effects and cells.
• Divide for Colors
  • If you’re using multiple colors, pour equal amounts of your clear mixed resin into separate small cups.
• Incorporate Pigments:
  • Liquid Dyes/Alcohol Inks
    • Add just a few drops at a time. These are highly concentrated.
  • Mica Powders
    • Use the tip of a craft stick to scoop a small amount. A little goes a very long way to create a shimmering effect.
  • Glitter
    • Use resin-specific glitter to prevent bleeding.
• Mix Color Thoroughly: Stir each color cup until the pigment is fully and evenly incorporated.

Step 5: Pour, Spread, and Eliminate Bubbles

This step determines the final look and clarity of your piece.

• Pour Slowly
  • Pour your resin mixture onto the center of your chosen surface (e.g., a wood panel, canvas, or into a silicone mold).
• Spread Evenly
  • Use a disposable spatula or a gloved finger to gently guide the resin to all edges. Ensure you pour in thin layers, about ⅛ inch (3 mm) thick. For deeper pieces, let each layer cure to a tacky state before adding the next to prevent heat buildup.
• Pop the Bubbles:
  • Heat Gun or Torch
    • This is the most effective method. Gently wave the heat source 4-6 inches above the surface. You will see the bubbles instantly rise and pop. Do not hold it in one spot or you will scorch the resin.
  • Toothpick
    • Use a toothpick to carefully pop any large, stubborn bubbles by hand.

Step 6: Cure, Demold, and Finish Your Art

Patience is key here. Disturbing the piece too early can ruin it.

• Cover and Cure
  • Place a large cardboard box, a dedicated dust cover, or a plastic container over your piece to protect it from dust, pet hair, and insects while it cures.
• Let it Sit Undisturbed
  • Leave your artwork on a perfectly level surface for at least 24 hours. It will be firm to the touch but may still be flexible. Full, hard cure is typically achieved in 48-72 hours.
• Demold
  • If you used a silicone mold, gently flex the sides to release your creation once it is fully cured.
• Finishing Touches
  • After full cure, you can sand any sharp edges with wet/dry sandpaper (start with 400 grit and move up to 1000+ grit for a polish). Finally, you can apply a final thin “doming” layer of resin or a polishing compound to restore a high-gloss, glass-like shine.

Tips for Creating Stunning Resin Art

Creating resin art is a rewarding process, but the real magic lies in the details. The following tips will help you avoid common pitfalls and bring out the best in your designs. These are practices even seasoned artists rely on to achieve professional results every time.

• Use High-Quality Materials
  • Always invest in premium epoxy resin and compatible pigments. Cheaper alternatives may yellow over time or cure inconsistently.
• Keep Your Workspace Dust-Free
  • Even a single speck of dust can ruin an otherwise perfect piece. Work in a clean area and cover your resin with a dust shield while curing.
• Plan Your Colors Ahead of Time
  • Think about your color combinations before you start. Mix a small test batch to preview how pigments look once blended with resin.
• Build in Layers for Depth
  • Thin pours allow for better control. Each layer adds dimension and reduces the risk of bubbles or warping.
• Experiment with Effects
  • Use ring pours or puddle pours to create natural patterns. Try swirling pigments or layering transparent and opaque colors for contrast.
• Work With Silicone Tools and Molds
  • Flexible molds release resin easily. Silicone spatulas and brushes help spread and coat resin cleanly.
• Maintain Safety Protocols
  • Wear a respirator and nitrile gloves. Resin fumes and skin contact can be harmful, even during short exposure.
• Control Heat and Timing
  • Use a heat gun or torch to pop bubbles right after pouring. Always move the heat steadily to avoid burning the surface.
• Let Each Layer Cure to Tacky Before the Next Pour
  • This ensures proper adhesion and prevents layer separation.
• Use Additives Wisely
  • Too much pigment or glitter can interfere with curing. Start small and adjust slowly.
• Store Leftovers Properly
  • Seal extra resin in airtight containers to keep moisture out and prolong shelf life.
• Sanding and Buffing
  • Wet sanding with progressively finer grits brings out a smooth finish. Buff with a soft cloth or polishing compound for a glass-like sheen.
• Add Personal Touches
  • Embed pressed flowers, coins, or keepsakes to create one-of-a-kind designs.
• Inspect Under Strong Light
  • Rotating your work under bright lighting reveals bubbles, dust, or other flaws you may have missed.
• Plan Your Cleanup
  • Keep isopropyl alcohol and lint-free wipes nearby. Clean up spills quickly before they harden.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Resin Art

Creating resin art involves many steps and it’s easy to slip up. The following covers the most frequent errors artists make. Spotting these pitfalls early will save you time and materials. Keep these in mind to ensure a flawless finish.

• Skipping Safety Gear: Working without gloves and a proper respirator exposes your skin and lungs to harmful chemicals. Always suit up before you measure or mix.
• Incorrect Resin-to-Hardener Ratio: Mixing parts by guesswork leads to sticky or soft spots in your piece. Always weigh each component precisely on a digital scale.
• Rushing the Mixing Process: Stirring too fast or for too short a time traps bubbles and leaves unmixed pockets. Use slow, deliberate motions for at least three minutes and scrape the cup sides.
• Pouring on an Uneven Surface: If your mold or board isn’t perfectly level, resin pools to one side. Check flatness with a level tool before any pour.
• Overloading with Pigments: Adding too much dye or mica powder can interfere with curing and clarity. Start with small increments and test a mini batch first.
• Ignoring Dust and Debris: Even a single speck can mar your glossy finish. Work in a clean workspace and cover wet resin immediately with a dust shield.
• Pouring Thick, Single Layers: Thick pours generate excess heat and may crack or yellow. Build up your piece in thin coats, letting each reach tacky before adding the next.
• Overheating While Removing Bubbles: Holding a torch too close or in one spot can scorch or crack the resin. Keep your heat source moving and at least 4–6 inches away.
• Demolding Too Early: Pulling a piece before it’s fully cured can warp or break it. Refer to the manufacturer’s cure times and wait at least 48 hours for full hardness.
• Skipping Sanding and Polishing: Leaving rough edges and surface imperfections undermines your work’s professionalism. Wet-sand with progressively finer grits and buff to a glass-like sheen.

Resin Art at Home: FAQs

• How long does epoxy resin take to cure for art projects?
  • Most epoxy resin pieces are touch-dry in 24 hours and fully cured in 48–72 hours, but always follow your brand’s instructions and keep the room between 70–75°F (21–24°C).
• Is resin art safe to do at home?
  • Yes, if you use protective gear (nitrile gloves, respirator, eye protection), work in a well-ventilated area, and follow the manufacturer’s safety guidelines. Avoid skin contact and do not use resin around children or pets.
• What is the best resin for beginner resin art?
  • Look for a two-part epoxy resin labeled for art or casting, with a long working time and low odor. Craft resins often have clearer instructions and are more forgiving for beginners.
• Can I make resin art without a heat gun?
  • You can pop small bubbles with a toothpick or a small butane torch on low, held 4–6 inches away. A heat gun gives more control, but you can also use a kitchen lighter in short passes for small pieces.
• What surfaces can I use for resin art?
  • Common surfaces include wood panels, canvas, silicone molds, and tiles. Ensure your surface is sealed, level, and dust-free before pouring.
• Why is my resin art still sticky or soft?
  • Sticky or soft resin usually means the resin and hardener were not measured correctly, were not mixed thoroughly, or the room was too cold while curing. Always follow the manufacturer’s ratio, mix slowly for several minutes while scraping the sides and bottom of the cup, and keep the temperature between 70–75°F (21–24°C) until the piece fully hardens.

Conclusion

Resin art offers endless creative potential for home artists. It combines science and art in a rewarding process. With proper tools and techniques, you can achieve professional results. Start small, build confidence, and expand into larger projects as you learn.

We have more unique art projects for your creative hobbies. Check out our pyrography art guide next!